One of my biggest changes i made was if I’m not working or on call but spending time with another person, I’ll fully turn off my phone. I realize in an emergency I need it, so I still bring it with me. But when I sit down with someone, my phone is off. And it will remain off.

It’s helped me realize so quickly how often we reach for our phones to demonstrate something rather than describe it. Saw a funny video? Describe it. Can’t describe it? Send a link later. It doesn’t have to interrupt the flow of the conversation.

I was always someone who had a batch of online stuff to show when things got quiet. Now I let the quietness stand. It’s much more enjoyable getting to see friends now.